• via Alberto da Giussano, 26, 20145 Milano
  • +39 02 4003 1253
  • info@studiolegalebianucci.it
  • Criminal Lawyer, Family Lawyer, Divorce Lawyer

Commentary on the Judgment of the Court of Cassation, Criminal Section I, No. 28915 of 2024: Transport of Foreigners and Inhumane Treatment

The recent ruling of the Court of Cassation No. 28915 of July 17, 2024, offers significant insights regarding the regulation of the transport of foreigners and the qualification of inhumane treatments, particularly within the framework of the Consolidated Act on Immigration (Legislative Decree No. 286/1998). In this article, we will analyze the reasons that led the Court to uphold the conviction of an individual for the transport of illegal immigrants under degrading conditions and the legal implications of this decision.

The Case and the Court's Decision

The defendant, A.A., was sentenced to four years and four months in prison for transporting seven illegal immigrants from Italy to France, using an inadequate van without openings for light and air. The Court of Appeal of Milan confirmed the existence of aggravating factors, emphasizing the inhumane nature of the transport.

The Court found that such conditions evidently constitute inhumane and degrading treatment, as they reduce individuals to mere commodities.

This decision is based on Article 12, paragraph 3, letter c) of the Consolidated Immigration Act, which punishes behaviors that involve inhumane or degrading treatment. The defendant attempted to challenge the application of this provision, arguing that the transport conditions did not constitute inhumane treatment, as the illegal immigrants had not suffered physical harm. However, the Court rejected this argument, highlighting how human dignity must be preserved even in the absence of evident physical effects.

Interpretation of the Law and Relevant Jurisprudence

The Court clarified that the application of the aggravating factors provided by the Consolidated Immigration Act is not limited to Italian territory but extends to behaviors that facilitate the entry of foreigners into other states. This interpretation is consistent with the principle of protecting human rights, as enshrined in the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

  • The Court emphasized that treating human beings as commodities is an unacceptable and deeply degrading behavior.
  • European jurisprudence confirms that even non-lethal treatments can constitute violations of fundamental rights.
  • The absence of physical harm does not exclude the existence of inhumane or degrading treatment.

Conclusions

The judgment No. 28915 of the Court of Cassation represents an important reference point in the fight against human trafficking and the inhumane treatment of foreigners. It reaffirms the necessity to protect fundamental rights and to consider transport conditions rigorously. The Court's position highlights the importance of a broad interpretation of the norms that protect human dignity, inviting legal scholars and practitioners to reflect on the impact of their actions within the context of immigration legislation.